If you’re craving a fuss-free, comforting meal that gets dinner on the table fast, this One Pot Spaghetti Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, where tender spaghetti simmers right alongside savory garlic and juicy tomatoes, absorbing every bit of that rich, tangy goodness. What makes this recipe truly special is how minimal ingredients and effort yield a satisfying dish that feels homemade and hearty without the usual mess. Trust me, once you try this One Pot Spaghetti Recipe, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward yet essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma in your pasta. Each one plays its part to create that irresistible sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti.
- 8 oz dry spaghetti: The star of the dish, providing a satisfying al dente bite when cooked right in the pot.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently sauté the garlic to release its fragrance.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic undertone that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes in juice: The heart of the sauce, offering a fresh, tangy tomato flavor with natural juices that keep everything moist.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors and bring balance to the dish.
- Fresh basil, for garnish: A bright, herbaceous touch that adds freshness and a pop of green color.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the pasta for a nutty, savory finish that completes every forkful.
How to Make One Pot Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant—about a minute. This step is crucial because it unlocks the garlic’s sweet and aromatic flavors, forming the base of your sauce.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, juice and all, which will dissolve into a vibrant, saucy base. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The juice ensures the spaghetti cooks evenly and soaks up the rich tomato essence.
Step 3: Submerge the Spaghetti
Break the spaghetti in half if needed and stir it into the pot, making sure to cover it with enough water or broth to submerge it by an inch. This liquid is what will cook the pasta directly in the sauce, creating a harmonious one-pot meal.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti Until Al Dente
Turn the heat up to bring everything to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking and help them cook evenly. You’ll want to check that the spaghetti is just tender with a little bite remaining—perfectly al dente.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil and Parmesan
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves along with the grated Parmesan cheese. These final touches not only add vibrant color and a fresh aroma but also a creamy, savory finish that brings the whole dish together beautifully.
How to Serve One Pot Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Simple yet effective garnishes like a few extra fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. For a bit of heat, you can also add red pepper flakes. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving adds a glossy, luxurious touch.
Side Dishes
This pasta is hearty enough on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread can turn your meal into a more rounded experience. Roasted vegetables or a light Caprese salad also make wonderful complements that keep things fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve your One Pot Spaghetti Recipe in rustic bowls topped with a generous handful of Parmesan shards and a sprig of basil. If you’re hosting, adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of basil pesto can add an unexpected twist that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool your leftover One Pot Spaghetti to room temperature then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to save portions for later. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover pasta gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Stir occasionally for even heating to avoid drying out the spaghetti.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this One Pot Spaghetti Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works best because of its shape and cooking time, you can swap it for linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
Do I need to pre-cook the pasta before adding it to the pot?
Nope! The beauty of this One Pot Spaghetti Recipe is that you cook the pasta directly in the tomatoes and liquid. It absorbs all those wonderful flavors as it softens, which saves time and cleanup.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely. Just skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast to keep that savory umami flavor without dairy.
What can I add for extra protein?
For a protein boost, consider stirring in cooked ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage when you sauté the garlic, or toss in some cooked beans or lentils near the end. This adds heartiness without complicating the process.
How can I adjust the sauce thickness?
If your sauce ends up a bit watery, simply simmer it a few minutes longer uncovered to let the excess liquid reduce. For a creamier texture, stirring in a little cream or mascarpone cheese at the end works wonders.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Spaghetti Recipe is just the kind of cozy, no-fuss meal that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Its simplicity doesn’t hold it back from bursting with flavor and satisfying your pasta cravings. I truly hope you give it a try—you might find it’s exactly the weeknight dinner shortcut you’ve been dreaming of.
Print
One Pot Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One Pot Spaghetti recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful pasta dish with minimal cleanup. Combining garlic, canned tomatoes, and fresh basil with perfectly cooked spaghetti, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz dry spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes in juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, then season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Add spaghetti and liquid: Stir in the uncooked spaghetti, breaking it if necessary to fit. Add enough water or broth to cover the spaghetti by about an inch so it can cook properly.
- Cook pasta: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Leave it uncovered and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the spaghetti is al dente and has absorbed the flavors.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pot from heat, stir in fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with extra basil or cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use broth instead of water for extra flavor.
- Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- You can add cooked vegetables or protein like chicken or sausage to make it a complete meal.
- Adjust seasoning as needed, especially after cooking, since the sauce reduces and concentrates flavors.
